Set Information

It Is About Time for Duel Decks: Merfolk vs. Goblins!

When Duel Decks: Elves vs. Goblins was announced in 2007, the Merfolk seemed to be an obvious choice for the next tribe for Duel Decks to feature. After all, they have been around for as long as Magic: The Gathering has been around, so certainly they would need representation in these new pseudo-tribal themed products. However, post Elves vs. Goblins, Duel Decks focused on Magic’s planeswalkers, leaving them behind. Well, 10 years later, the Merfolk are finally getting their own place in a Duel Deck, alongside a second appearance of everyone’s favorite (or least favorite) red tribe, the Goblins.

Duel Decks: Merfolk Vs. Goblins is available exclusively in Duel Deck boxes with an expected manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $19.99 (est. 17.23€). With the details out of the way, what exactly can your money get in this new expansion?

The Merfolk Lords and Wave Masters

The Merfolk component of this deck should make Merfolk players in Modern and Legacy happier because it reprints many essential Merfolk for those decks, including Master of the Pearl Trident and Harbinger of Tides. Legacy players are not, however, getting a reprint of True-Name Nemesis and Modern players are not getting a reprint of any of the recent green Merfolk (not that they need them).

In addition, several cards from this side will receive new artwork, including a new foil Master of Waves and a new Misdirection. Overall, the Merfolk deck provides some quality reprints to help control the prices of many four-of cards, while providing a nice introduction to the iconic tribe for new players.

The Goblin Instigators, a Rabblemaster, and Krenko

Goblins get a bit more in this new set with a reprint of Goblin Rabblemaster, Warren Instigator, and Krenko, Mob Boss. This gives Goblin players many essential cards for their deck, while providing a nice jump-off point for those considering a Goblin deck of their own. Similar to the Merfolk side, several cards will receive new art, including the above Instigator and Relentless Assault.

Overall, Duel Decks: Merfolk vs. Goblins provides a number of quality reprints for returning players, while providing, like all Duel Decks, a nice jump-off point for new players. With two complete decks and a significant discount, sleeve up your Goblins and Merfolk, and get ready to pit two of MTG’s most popular tribes against each other.